Apply to attend the IMPACT National Conference with a group of Drake students and staff March 1–4 at the University of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio. Applications are due Dec. 10 and a non-refundable deposit is due by Jan. 23.

What is IMPACT?

The IMPACT Conference is historically the largest gathering in the country focused on the civic engagement of college students in community service, service-learning, community-based research, advocacy, and other forms of social action. More than 600 students from across the U.S. attended last year’s conference. The conference includes keynote speakers, more than 100 workshops, an opportunities fair, social events, and more.

Why apply?

The IMPACT Conference is a chance to connect with students from across the U.S., learn about innovative ideas others are implementing, and network with Drake students in order to put together a collective impact plan for campus.

How to apply

There are a limited number of spots available. To apply, submit a brief essay and include the following information:

• Name and year in school
• Major and organizations involved in/leadership roles
• Why you are interested in attending the IMPACT Conference
• What you hope to get out of attending the conference
• What you think you could bring back to Drake’s campus

Submit your essay to Amanda Martin, program coordinator in community engaged learning, at amanda.martin@drake.edu no later than midnight Dec. 10.

Cost to attend

Thanks to a generous donor, Drake will fund a large portion of students’ trips, which averages to about $500. Attendees will be asked to put down a non-refundable $125 deposit that will go toward the registration fee by Jan. 23. Lodging and transportation will be provided. While some meals will be provided, a few meals will be the responsibility of the student. If the fee is a hardship that would be a barrier to applying and you can demonstrate financial need, please contact Amanda Martin to discuss.

The conference begins in Dayton on the evening of Thursday, March 1. Participants will depart for the conference Thursday morning, requiring attendees to miss Thursday and Friday of classes. The conference concludes on Sunday, March 4, at 11 a.m., and the group will return to campus that day, arriving at approximately 8 p.m. Attendees will be asked to submit a reflection following the conference that highlights what they learned and an action plan for how they will use that information moving forward.

Questions? Contact Amanda Martin at amanda.martin@drake.edu.

Amanda Martin, Community Engaged Learning